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Many English NHS computer systems shut down in response to a ransomware attack

At least 16 National Health Service organizations in England have been impacted by a ransomware attack. Users report being locked-out from computers and some systems have been closed down to prevent propagation of the malware.

NHS Digital has issued a crisis communications statement about the incident, which reads as follows:

“A number of NHS organisations have reported to NHS Digital that they have been affected by a ransomware attack which is affecting a number of different organisations.

“The investigation is at an early stage but we believe the malware variant is Wanna Decryptor.

“At this stage we do not have any evidence that patient data has been accessed. We will continue to work with affected organisations to confirm this.

“NHS Digital is working closely with the National Cyber Security Centre, the Department of Health and NHS England to support affected organisations and to recommend appropriate mitigations.

“This attack was not specifically targeted at the NHS and is affecting organisations from across a range of sectors.

“Our focus is on supporting organisations to manage the incident swiftly and decisively, but we will continue to communicate with NHS colleagues and will share more information as it becomes available.”

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